United v Liverpool: Key battles

UNITED and Liverpool both need three points from Sunday's clash at Old Trafford to stand any chance of catching Chelsea should the Barclays Premiership leaders slip up. Here we look at the key battles:

UNITED and Liverpool both need three points from Sunday's clash at Old Trafford to stand any chance of catching Chelsea should the Barclays Premiership leaders slip up.

Here we look at the key battles:

RIO FERDINAND V PETER CROUCH

Ferdinand has plenty to prove after England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson told an undercover reporter the centre-back was "lazy sometimes". Stalled on a contract with United which angered fans and his form has been inconsistent.

Ferdinand is still one of the finest current England defenders and will have to be at his best to combat the aerial threat of Crouch. The striker struggled at Anfield initially after arriving from Southampton but is now off the mark and looking dangerous.

WAYNE ROONEY V JAMIE CARRAGHER

Rooney is back from suspension and will be looking to continue his good form against Liverpool after scoring the winner at Anfield last season. Expected to lead England to glory at the World Cup in the summer, so keeping the youngster fit - as well as on form - is of paramount importance.

Carragher has developed into one of the finest centre-backs in Europe, the unsung hero of Liverpool's Champions League success last season. With Rooney dropping deep, Carragher will need to spot the late runs of his England team-mate.

RUUD VAN NISTELROOY V SAMI HYYPIA

Van Nistelrooy provided much of United's threat since he arrived at Old Trafford in 2001. Even this season, with United struggling compared to previous campaigns, the Holland striker has 19 goals already.

Hyypia has been the cornerstone of Liverpool's defence this season, forming an excellent understanding with Carragher. The Finland international makes up for a lack of pace with his positional awareness and also pops up with goals, although he is yet to score this season.